Cruising Community at ASC

The
cruising community at ASC is truly that; and we have experienced the
generosity of its members and provided assistance to others on more
than one occasion. That’s why Tony and I decided to buy an older
boat for our first coastal cruiser, and to work the kinks out here at
the lake where we have such a large support group. We didn’t plan
to need them so quickly, however! After a lovely post-family day
night anchored off ASC’s beach we began to motor back to
Tradewinds, when suddenly the shift cable broke, leaving us in
forward gear on a monstrous boat we hardly know and have only docked
twice.

We
circled the open safe area while trying to figure out our next move,
and within minutes the Buckleys came alongside offering help and
support. Shortly thereafter, the Pooles, Hatchers and friends came
to our aid. Some came aboard to help dock; others ran to Tradewinds
to stand by on the dock. By this time we had figured out how to
shift the transmission manually at the engine, and hoped we would not
crash through the dock. With the help of the ASC Cruiser’s
Community, she came in so gently that no one at Tradewinds was the
wiser!

This
experience made me think of all the people at the club with larger
sailboats who have expressed an interest in cruising, but have a
broken this. . . or are unsure of that. . . . Whatever your issue,
share with the group! There’s surely one of us who have been there
before, and know how to fix it. We’re always ready to help. And
if it’s just insecurity, cast off those bowlines. You’re not
alone out there -- We’ve got your back!

Thunder Over Thurmond is July 7, and is advertised to be an all-day
affair with an airshow before the fireworks. Won’t you come raft
up with us? And if you’re worried about something, give a shout
and lets get it fixed so you don’t miss the fun.